Amazing Activities and Science Facts You’ll Never Believe
by
Illustrated by
Ages 8 to 12
Hardcover: 64pp | 9 1/2 x 8 inches | $22.95
ISBN: 978-1-897349-18-2 (US $22.95)
Paperback: 64pp | 9 1/2 x 8 inches | $12.95
ISBN: 978-1-897349-19-9 (US $10.95)
“This fun and brightly illustrated book will help explain some of life's curiosities with amazing activities you can do at home…Curious minds will have a blast with Science on the Loose.”
~ KidsBookshelf.com
ABOUT THE BOOK
Parents, teachers, librarians, even kids themselves, are asking for science activity books. Bursting with hands-on science in areas often left unexplored in other science books for kids, and complemented with jaw-dropping information about the science of our world at large, Science on the Loose offers a unique and fresh perspective guaranteed to be a hit for all parties.
Infused with Helaine Becker’s trademark wit and irrepressible energy, Science on the Loose encourages young readers to release their inner scientist, and think, do, and learn—in the most entertaining way possible. Each experiment—whether it’s to test density in fruit, determine dominant genes, or make slimy goo—follows accepted scientific procedure. Kids, teachers, and parents alike will delight in this highly original collection of scientific discovery.
Easy-to-follow experiments can be safely performed without special equipment or unusual ingredients, and make for satisfyingly simple adventures in the surprises of science. From fooling our senses, to discovering whether Jello can have brain waves, to creating ice cream by kicking around a can, Science on the Loose breaks free of run-of-the-mill science activity books, and feeds into kids’ natural curiosity and interest in the world around them.
Each experiment features a “What’s Going On?” component that explains the science behind the results in a clear and concise way. So even when an experiment just feels like silly fun, readers are learning about chemistry, climate change, genes, the senses, photosynthesis, scientific method—even Einstein’s Theory of Relativity. Along the way they’ll also be discovering intriguing “Scientists on the Loose” and their wacky—but always real—experiments, all done in the name of science. Yes, there are real scientists studying belly button lint, and pickles that glow in the dark. And let’s not forget those that are researching cookie-eating robots, what kinds of cheese may cause nightmares, and whether fear smells.
In addition to a regular subject index at the back, a helpful listing outlines all the scientific principles covered in the book—an indispensable tool for teachers, and a mark of a “serious” science book for parents.
Appealingly cool and delightfully witty, Claudia Dávila’s artwork strikes the perfect note alongside Helaine’s text. A winning combination that has something for everyone, Science on the Loose will convince even the most reluctant young scientist that science is really fun and surprising.
REVIEWS:
KidsBookshelf.com
“This fun and brightly illustrated book will help explain some of life's curiosity's with amazing activities you can do at home…Curious minds will have a blast with Science on the Loose.”
Suite101.com
“[Helaine Becker] is destined to become an all time favorite, if for no other reason than her sense of humor is spicy and delicious…It wouldn’t be surprising to find teachers extending read aloud time and parents down on the floor poring over these pages with their kids. It’s fun. Period."
The Florida Times-Union / Jacksonville.com
“Fun fuel for your next science project…The book reflects [Becker’s] knack for creating enthusiasm about subjects…When it’s explained in catchy wording…doing a science project seems less daunting, and dare we say, fun?”
Quill & Quire
"With a warm sense of humour and excellent analogies, Becker effectively explains the captivating oddities of the natural world and our own bodies. In the morass of tedious non-fiction for children, this is something of a gem."
The Bookworm Sez (syndicated column)
“If you want to keep your 7- to 14-year-old reading between school years, get a copy of Science on the Loose. It’ll keep your kid focused on learning fun all summer long.”
Young Adult (&Kids) Books Central
“I've always had the sneaking suspicion that science could be fun and funny—and now I know it's true…[A] fantastic blend of knowledge and fun.”
The Chronicle Herald (Halifax, NB)
“Feed your young reader’ budding curiosity with this book chock full of fascinating and wacky factsa about everyday science…Becker will turn your youngster into an inquisitive scientist [and] keep your bookworm entertained for hours. Tuck it away for a rainy vacation day and you’ll score big.”
CM Magazine
"This is one of the very best books of science activities for students in upper elementary school...Many of the suggested explorations are new or set in a context that is original, very well-suited to the age of reader for whom the book was written, and, where possible, connected to the results or current or historical research."
Saskatchewan Learning
"[Science on the Loose] is filled with unusual information and includes activities that require only simple materials and a curious mind!"
The Muskokan
"The great thing about [Helaine] Becker's work is its high level of kid appeal. The text is zippy, the language is cool and the easy-to-do experiments are fun, fun, fun...Claudia Davila's illustrations are all about strong colours, humour and free-wheeling design. A perfect extension of the text."
Canadian Children's Book News
“After devouring Science on the Loose, kids, and even adults, will have many of their burning questions answered and not realize that they have just started exploring the scientific world."
YES Mag
"If you like hands-on science, this book is for you...this book is as educational as a textbook, but much more interesting."
Journal-Advocate
"[Science on the Loose is] perfect for kids 8 to 12. It lets them learn something useful without making them feel like they're learning."
Professionally Speaking
"This cleverly written book makes science fun, interesting, and accessible...sure to catch students' interest and keep them reading to find out more."
NSTA Recommends
"...a great source of 'sponge' experiences to fill odd moments or 'appetizers' to start a science class in the spirit of inquiry."

